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Fitbit Flex Review

The flex is an interesting entry to Fitbits line of activity tracking devices. Being the first device designed specifically for the wrist, it also represents a major update in functionality from its predecessors. While it can be argued that the original fitbit was a glorified pedometer, this Flex brings more to the table.

The flex monitors steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned, active minutes, hours of sleep and quality of sleep. In addition to these measurements, the flex also boasts a silent alarm. A feature which vibrates the device at a preset time, a small but useful feature for those of you with significant others.

A major feature in the functionality of the flex is its ability to wirelessly sync with your devices. With the included wireless dongle, it automatically syncs your data via your PC. The free Fitbit app, available for both IOS and Android, allow the Flex to sync via Bluetooth 4.0 with your mobile device. The app is capable of passive and active syncing. That is, the app syncs with the Flex on a time interval. However, if necessary you can force a sync via the app options.

The overall design of the Flex is very reminiscent of the last few products released by Fitbit. The flex is really just a pill shaped device, with the wrist strap being a case. Most notable is the lack of any buttons on the wrist strap or on the device itself. Charging the device requires you to remove the pill shaped Flex from the wrist strap and then docket it into a proprietary USB connector which then plugs into your pc. While this means that we are now dealing with more parts overall, for those fashion forward individuals, it does mean that you can purchase multiple wrist straps to compliment your outfit.

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While the Flex is a great step forward it does have a few issues. The most glaring of which is it’s over simplified display, which is useful for little more than know when you’ve completed a steps goal. The display is made up of 5 dots, which could mean different things in different modes.

Modes, while the device is capable of different modes, it is difficult to actually switch to those modes, because of the buttonless design. Tapping on the device is the only way to switch modes, and when it does not recognize the taps, your left frustrated tapping on your wrist.

The sleep mode is something that also needs improvement. Users might find it a little inconvenient to have to activate sleep mode every night before bed.

In conclusion, for those of you interested in monitoring your daily activities, the Flex is a great choice and should be considered. When taken into consideration that Fitbit continues to make its API available to app designers, this presents added value to the already great value of $99.99 and you can pick it up from AT&T.